How to Tackle Time-Consuming Tasks (that You Thought Would be Easy to do)

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All tasks are not equal. There are tasks you guess should take just a few minutes, and then an hour later, you are just finishing. There are tasks that are actually projects that as you work on them have multiple steps that keep multiplying. Rarely is there a just five-minute task anymore. Lately, everyone has been commenting on how complicated it seems to be to get stuff done. Whether it’s getting help around the house, working on your email, completing an online form, or clearing out your closet, some tasks take longer than you expected.

You may long for simpler times with easier-to-complete tasks. However, with a few strategies, you may feel you are gaining efficiency and making tasks more manageable. The big secret to task management is breaking tasks down into manageable chunks and allocating time to each segment.

 

Be specific about the task

Is it a task or a project? A task is a single step, while a project is multiple steps. Knowing this, you are ready to begin. Add the task to your list with a specific action. Using action words also helps you know where to start.

  • Instead of “Do taxes”, write gather documents for taxes, prepare income section, prepare charity section, or contact a tax preparer.
  • Instead of “Hire lawn person”, write gather potential names, ask neighbors, contact lawn people for estimates, and finalize the decision.
  • Instead of “complete TSA form”, write go to website, gather documents, make appointment, and so on.

 

Break tasks into microtasks

Breaking down your tasks into microtasks gives you the opportunity to make progress in baby steps. You can batch by time with a 15-minute microtask list. You can batch by category, like all phone calls. Or you can write out the microsteps and keep that as a list with the project itself.

Instead of “Complete expense report,” break it into:

  • Get the form for the report
  • Gather supporting data from credit cards
  • Categorize by meals, accommodations, and travel
  • Add information to the report
  • Create pdf
  • Upload information
  • Hit send to the correct person

Each microtask should be something you can complete in 15–30 minutes. Celebrate each step along the way because you are making progress!

 

Use the “Next Action” Trick

If you are unsure where to start on a project, think of the next action. By asking yourself what the very next thing is, you can move a task forward bit by bit. As you build momentum, you will gain clarity. One of the best first actions is to organize the materials needed, get the form itself, or follow a checklist that may be provided. There are often instructions provided for where to start. If you are not sure of the next action, narrow the options to no more than 2 or 3. If you have too many options, you stall out because of making a decision about the next option. Gather crowd-sourced information if you struggle with making that next action decision.

 

Schedule your task time

Have you heard the phrase “a plan is a wish without a calendar?” Large, overwhelming, scary, or vague tasks sitting on your to-do list are easy to ignore. Instead, schedule time on your calendar to do the microtasks you created. Try blocking out 25-minute chunks using the Pomodoro Technique (work for 25 minutes, break for 5, for a series of three 25-minute sessions). This works especially well for deep thinking or tedious tasks. Begin to know your pattern for how long you can work. Some people are hyperfocused and can work for lengthy time periods. Other people know that they have a short attention span or frustration span.  Learning this helps you allocate sufficient time.

 

Batch similar tasks

Some unrelated tasks often have similar activities. That might be setting dates, writing emails, or making phone calls. Group related microtasks together to reduce mental switching. This batching keeps your brain in one mode longer, which saves energy and increases focus. You are more efficient in batching and feel more successful too.

 

Use a digital progress tracker or checklist

Seeing progress is motivating. A series of unending tasks holds us back. Use a checklist or a tool like Click Up, Notion, or even a sticky note to track completed microtasks. The satisfaction of checking things off gives you momentum—and makes the task feel far less intimidating. Make your tracker and checklist easy to see every day. You will notice the impression this makes on your energy level and confidence.

 

Allow for flexing as needed

Time-consuming tasks often expand beyond your estimate. Build buffer time into your schedule so you’re not thrown off when that 15-minute task actually takes 40. This keeps you from feeling frustrated. In addition, build in a transition time between the task and the next activity. This way you avoid being irritable about switching between tasks, projects, and activities. That transition time applies to getting ready for the day.

 

It is not easy to estimate how long it will take for a task or project. By using new strategies, you will become more comfortable with the time it takes to accomplish your to-do list. Good luck!

 

25 Ways to Get Ready for the Holiday Season

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The beginning of October ushers in the holiday season.  The joy of the season is amplified by preparation.  Many extra tasks and projects can be a mix of joy and stress. With intention, planning, and organization, you can create a holiday season that’s meaningful, enjoyable, and even relaxing. Here are 25 ways to get ready for the holidays so you can spend less time worrying and more time celebrating.

Home & Décor

  • Declutter before decorating .  It is time to refresh you space before you start to decorate. Clear out old or unused items so your home feels fresh and ready for seasonal décor. Let go of decor you have not used in several years.
  • Check your holiday decorations. Inventory what you have so you know what you need. Test lights, organize ornaments, and repair or replace anything broken.
  • Think through your decorating plan.  Each year brings a new approach to your decorating. Update your plan and decide which areas of your home you’ll decorate. Remember to keep it simple if you have less time and energy.
  • Set up a wrapping station. Make it easy and fun to do the required tasks. A wrapping station consolidates all your tools and materials. Keep tape, scissors, tags, and wrapping paper in one place.
  • Gather a team for cleaning and decorating. Remember that a team effort will help you enjoy the time together and be efficient.

Food & Entertaining

  • Plan your holiday treats and meals with simplicity.  It’s easiest to focus on your family recipes if you have help with semi-homemade extras. Write menus and grocery lists now to avoid last-minute stress. Use curb side delivery for easy shopping.
  • Stock your pantry with essentials. Know your stock and keep it fresh. Pull out recipes early to stock what is needed.
  • Prep freezer-friendly dishes. Your menu can include easy-to-prepare recipes that can be duplicated to save time. Soups, casseroles, and cookie dough freeze well and save time later.
  • Plan ahead for homemade gifts. Write out your holiday treat giving on your calendar to plan for time to purchase, bake, and deliver your treat.
  • Check serving dishes and cookware. Make sure you have enough platters, roasting pans, and storage containers.

Gifts & Shopping Lists

  • Create a gift list that follows your budget.  Write down recipients and brainstorm gift ideas in advance. Think about family games and puzzles as gifts that bring people together.
  • Set a holiday budget. Especially this year, finances are tight. Decide what you’ll spend on gifts, food, travel, and events to avoid overspending. Track your expenses on an app or spreadsheet to keep up with a tally.
  • Shop your gift closet. It is time to use all those gifts you picked up all year.
  • Order online early and track your items. Many times deliveries happen without boxes being opened. Shop, inventory, and then wrap throughout the season.
  • The joy of the season is in wrapping and delivering. Wrap gifts as you buy them instead of waiting until the night before and set a date on your calendar to deliver.

Family & Traditions

  • Host a family meeting to set dates. Block off dates for school concerts, family gatherings, and community events.
  • At your family meeting, prioritize traditions. Have everyone share what is their favorite holiday event. Decide which rituals matter most to your family and let go of extras that cause stress.
  • Schedule time to reflect and reset. Protect family evenings for rest, games, or movies together.
  • Prepare for holiday traditions with shopping lists. Use curbside delivery for help.
  • Don’t forget family fun that brings everyone togther.  Holiday outdoor light scavenger hunts, baking breads and cookies, and volunteering together are ways to spend time together.

 

Self-Care & Peace of Mind

  • Plan your attire for the holidays. Make this easy by assembling your holiday attire together in your closet.
  • Keep gift cards ready. Having extra cards available and low amount gift cards makes gift giving easier.
  • Get to the airport early and have your playlist ready. Arriving early makes parking and getting through the check in process less stressful.
  • Bring your holiday intentions to life by setting happy boundaries. Reflect on what is meaningful to you and follow your intentions with a polite no. Overcommitment leads to frustration and aggitation.
  • Focus on gratitude. Writing in a holiday journal, you can share what you’re thankful for.  Many families have a gratitude jar for the holiday season.

The holiday season doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With a little preparation and lots of intention, you can enjoy more of what truly matters most. By prioritizing time with family and friends, meaningful traditions, and the season’s spirit, you have the most joyful of holidays. Pick a few of these 25 strategies to start today, and you’ll be ready to celebrate with less stress and more joy.

ADHD and Transition Time: Why Starting and Finishing Can Feel So Hard (and How to Make It Easier)

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adhd and transition time

If you live with ADHD, you already know that the hardest parts of a task often aren’t the task itself. The real challenges can come with getting started, stopping when it’s time, or shifting from one thing to another. These challenges are initiation (starting), completion (finishing), and transition time (switching gears). These can take extra energy and feel overwhelming at times. While others may move smoothly from one step to the next, for those with ADHD, it can feel like slamming on the brakes or trying to start a car that just won’t turn over. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there are ways to make these transitions easier and gentler on your mind and energy.

 

Why Transitioning Is Hard with ADHD

People with ADHD struggle with executive function, which is your brain’s system for planning, initiating, organizing, and following through. It can feel overwhelming to start even the smallest of projects because of multiple steps. Ending a task because of hyperfocus can feel impossible. You can feel resistance to switching between tasks and activities. The ADHD brain processes time, urgency, and priorities differently.

 

Strategies for initiation

Make starting a task or project easier with these cues.

  • Expect to use an initiation strategy for your hardest tasks and projects. Resistance with emotional regulation, such as feelings of fear or being overwhelmed, prevents you from beginning.
  • Use external signals to help you get started. Use a timer to begin any task. Once you start, most likely you will continue on that task.
  • Set a transition alarm and a starting alarm. That way you can finish up and prepare for the next action.
  • Curate music playlists as a cue to start your efforts. You can set up playlists for a variety of tasks such as organizing, cleaning, and working.
  • Start with the ridiculously easy. Lower the barrier to entry with micro-tasks. That can be “Put on Sneakers” instead of “Go for a Run.” Or it can be “Open laptop” instead of “write essay.”
  • Know the “why” behind the task. Getting the big picture can help you buy in to the task more fully.

 

Strategies for completion

Wrap up your work more easily.

  • Don’t expect your brain to wrap up. Cue your completion.
  • Start with external cues. Try alarms or calendar alerts. Place reminders where you’ll see or hear them so they can gently pull you out of your hyperfocus.
  • Instead of aiming to “work until it feels done,” define what that endpoint is. That could mean sending the email draft, uploading the file, or cleaning off your desk. A clear, concrete endpoint makes it easier to stop without feeling like you’re leaving things undone.
  • Tell someone when you plan to be finished, whether it’s a colleague, friend, or family member. Even a quick check-in text like, “I’m wrapping up by 5:30 today,” can provide the external nudge to actually stop and close out your work.
  • Create a wrap-up routine to finish your work. Write a note to yourself to share where you are finishing and the next steps.
  • Be mindful of your level of perfectionism. Most likely, it is more important to complete the task or project with 90% perfection. There is a saying, “Done is perfect.”

 

Build in Transition Time

Don’t expect your brain to shift instantly.

  • Create written buffer zones in your calendar for meetings that go longer, have heavier travel traffic, and require time to get out of the house.
  • Work backwards to create a workflow for a transition. Start with the finish line and work backwards, adding in all the steps to accomplish that task. Include all the transitions between steps.
  • Plan a pause. That can be 5 minutes of stretching, a short walk, or straightening your desk.
  • A transition routine like closing tabs, writing a to-do list, or changing environments

 

Getting started and wrapping up are two of the most common sticking points for people with ADHD. By breaking tasks into smaller steps, adding external cues, and building simple routines around starting and finishing, you can create smoother beginnings and clearer endings. Progress is about finding strategies that work for your brain and giving yourself credit for every step forward.

25 Easy Ways to Recycle More in Your Everyday Life

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Recycling is one of many ways we can make a difference every day for future generations. As fast as paper, plastic, and cardboard come in, it is easy to get overwhelmed by the amount of recycling in your home or at work. Recycling can be easier with a little planning and a good routine. You can keep more out of the landfill while keeping your home tidy and eco-friendly. Here are 25 easy ways to recycle in your daily life.

Recycling Systems and Routines Made Simple

  • There are a series of steps in recycling paper, plastic, cardboard, and metal. Make your recycling simple by breaking the steps into chunks that are manageable in your home. Create the process for yourself depending on how you work best.
  • Your recycled items should be clean before recycling. It is best to wash your recycling daily, and if possible, have a place for it to dry.
  • Set up a recycling station by using bins or baskets. You might choose a station in your kitchen or laundry room for gathering your recycling, then move it to the garage where you have a large recycling bin that goes to the curb.
  • Separating recycling depends on where you recycle. If you have single-stream recycling, no need to separate. If you do need to separate, know which items can be kept together. Use a separate bin for each. Make it easy to drop items in a container in your home and then to an additional area in your garage. Choose what you recycle depending on how easy it is to group the items.
  • Recycle cardboard by breaking down boxes. If you break down the boxes, you save room in recycling containers. You can nest the boxes together, too.
  • Reuse glass jars and containers as storage. These make great containers for leftovers and making salad dressing.
  • Recycle aluminum foil and trays by rinsing and then crumbling them up to save space.
  • Plastic bags can be recycled at local grocery stores. Take these with you when you grocery shop.
  • If you have curbside recycling, place your container at the curb early each day. Set an alarm to remind you early.
  • If you have community recycling, make it a routine to drop off each weekend that recycling is available.

 

Easy ways to recycle items in your home

  • Use cloth napkins instead of paper. This might add to your laundry once a week, but this cuts down on waste.
  • Donate gently used clothes rather than trashing them. Local charities and shelters always welcome clothing.
  • Pass along books and magazines by dropping them off at local waiting rooms. You can also share with friends or Little Free Libraries.
  • Many dry cleaners take back plastic or wire hangers. Gather these and drop off when you drop off dry cleaning.
  • You can repurpose towels and sheets by donating them to local animal shelters, where they are used for clean-up and bedding.

Be mindful of Electronics

  • The City of Houston and many large cities host electronics recycling events. Look on social media for these upcoming events to drop off your items. Be sure your devices are digitally cleaned up without your information on them.
  • Retailers like Apple, Best Buy, or your carrier often accept electronic trade-ins. Each time you upgrade, let go of your used items.
  • You can also sell your older devices online at spots like Swappa, Gazelle, or ItsWorthMore.
  • Recycle used printer cartridges by bringing them to office supply stores, where you can get a credit for purchases when you bring them back.
  • Routinely review the cords and chargers in your home. Set up a travel charger system to carry with you when you travel and donate the extra cords. Not surprisingly, these sell well at thrift stores.

On the Go Recycling

  • Bring a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated. This cuts down on single-use plastic bottles and, therefore, plastic recycling.
  • Double up your cooking portions to make your lunch. Bringing lunch saves money and styrofoam.
  • Bring your reusable bags when you grocery shop. Leave these in the car to have them handy. Keep an insulated tote in your car too.
  • Empty your car of recycling items each evening when you return home. Your car stays tidy, and you have contributed to saving the planet.
  • It may take a little driving but it is well worth it. Properly dispose of paint and chemicals by checking local and city-wide ordinances on recycling. Check your city for hazardous waste collection days.

Recycling doesn’t have to be complicated. Choose one simple solution to make it easy to do. With a few simple habits, you’ll reduce clutter and protect the environment. If you get behind in your recycling, find a recycling center for the largest items and make a trip there on the weekend. You are making a difference in creating recycling systems and routines that work with your busy lifestyle.

The Power of the Pause to Support Your Goals

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Life’s velocity is a lot. I often write about the power of a pause.

I recently heard this quote from Hoda Kotb.

“Maybe that’s the answer. Slow down everything. Slow down conversations. Slow down moments. Slow down the bath. Slow down dinner. Slow down.”

There’s nothing more applicable to being able to slow down than a pause. A pause is an intentional stop within any time frame. It can be helpful when an emotionally reactive situation is about to occur or when you feel overwhelmed. Here are other situations where a pause can help you find clarity and help you set your goals.

 

Pause between seasons

Seasons are a natural transition for us each year. As the environment changes temperature, external elements unfold to move us forward. Those seasonal transitions are also a good time to evaluate your goals. This is instead of an annual assessment; think about a 90-day pause and assessment. Questions you can ask yourself as you pause are:

  • What worked?
  • What happened to make this work?
  • What’s next?

These reflections give you an opportunity to course-correct or amplify your efforts.

Pause when there are life transitions

Life transitions, such as moving, job changes, or family losses, can be happy or sad. We may want to barrel through and get to the other side of that transition. A pause can help all types of support. It can be with emotional support therapy or coaching. Addressing your emotions and finding additional support can offer clarity and move you forward. You can add to your team knowing the support you need. A bigger team might include a cleaning person at home,

Initiate a strategic pause

An intentional strategic pause helps you at home and at work. Strategic meetings offer clarity in all forms. A family board meeting or annual summit with time together, away from home, talking about family values, connects families with communication and cohesiveness. Your business hosts an annual strategic planning meeting to interpret data from last year and know the next steps.

 

Pause for self-care

More people are speaking about their need for a pause. If you have been moving at warp speed or feeling out of sorts because of the speed of life, here is permission for you to speak what you need when you need it. “Slowing down before jumping to action can set you on a much more meaningful path to action.” You will be all the better for responding in a way that is authentic to you and your values.

 

Here is your first step to empowering your pause. That is knowing when a pause is valuable for you. I encourage you to take a few minutes now and jot a few ideas down.

25 Simple Self-Care Choices to Nurture Your Whole Self and Space

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25 self-care tips

As a Certified Professional Organizer, I often talk about decluttering our homes, productivity strategies, creating systems, and finding peace in order. But there’s another layer to being truly organized—and that’s self-care. When we care for ourselves, we’re better equipped to care for others, manage our responsibilities, and feel calm in the chaos. One of my favorite quotes is “Put your own oxygen mask on first.” Putting self-care into action is just that!

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s simply about tuning in to what you need and giving yourself permission to rest, recharge, or refocus. Don’t wait until you are burning the candle at both ends and you feel like burnt toast. Here are 25 friendly, simple self-care choices that can support your whole self.

Keeping up with self-care for nurturing your mind and brain. 

  • Read for pleasure. Readers are leaders. Choose a topic you love and get lost in a book. Reading at night is a great way to get ready for rest.
  • Write in a journal. Process the day or get your thoughts out with daily journaling.
  • Say “no” without guilt. Easier said than done, being aware of when to say “no” protects your energy and your emotions. Boundaries are a form of self-care.
  • Unplug for an hour whether it is a nap, or simply sitting. Silence the noise with a meditation moment and give your brain a break.
  • Practice gratitude. This daily practice of jotting down three things you’re grateful for changes your entire perspective on life.
  • Try a puzzle, crossword, or game. These are ways to give your brain a playful challenge. Learning something new is another springboard to brain health.
  • Declutter one small area. Feeling the energy to toss? A clear space can help clear your mind.
  • Take a learning break. Listening to a podcast or TED talk inspires and informs you.

Take good care of your physical self. 

  • Take a walk outside. Especially as a start to the day, fresh air and movement can shift your whole mood. Step outside for 10 minutes.
  • Stretch for five minutes. We hold so much tension in our bodies, especially our necks. Release tension and reset your posture.
  • Drink more water.  Enhance your brain power with hydration. Hydration can work wonders for your energy and focus.
  • Take a nap. The wonder of rest can make all the difference. Choose a nap when you feel fatigue coming on.
  • Try a new healthy recipe. Each season calls us to cook differently. For summer, choose fresh-in-season veggies and salads. For winter make a pot of soups or stew.
  • Put on comfy clothes. Each evening I change into jammies especially early to feel comfy. Even just changing into cozy socks can feel like a reset.
  • Sway, tap your toes, or dance to your favorite song. Movement + joy = instant mood boost.
  • Have a “do nothing” moment. A pause makes the biggest difference at times. Regroup, sit, breathe, or stand to give yourself a moment.

Create a space that nurtures you. 

  • Make your bed. Notice how beautiful and inviting your room looks! A simple act that starts your day with a win.
  • Light a candle or choose a diffuser. Scents are a powerful way to soothe and signal relaxation.
  • Tidy a surface. A cleared counter gives us a sense of order, calm, and clarity. This visual cue signals us to slow down.
  • Set a 10-minute timer to clean or organize. A short burst of tidying and organizing can be rewarding.
  • Bring in something fresh. Change the vibe of your space with a plant, flowers, or a new pillow
  • Create a cozy corner. Adding a chair, blanket, and light can create your recharge zone. Adding cozy blankets to any spot makes that an area to reset.
  • Play calming music. From Pandora to Spotify, music is around us. Let sound soothe your space.
  • Put something away that’s been bothering you. That undone task is nagging you. Just do one small task to tidy, Tiny wins build momentum.
  • Create a reset time daily. A tidy space encourages peace and purpose.

Remember that you are worthy of setting aside time for self-care. Your mind and body require this. Connect to yourself, your needs, and what helps you feel more grounded, together, and whole. You don’t need to do all 25 things today or any day. Just pick one that resonates, and let it be enough to bring you clarity and calm. When you’re caring for yourself, your mind is clear, your body cared for, and your space nurtured. That’s when life feels a little lighter, easier, more orderly, and more beautiful.

What’s your favorite form of self-care? I’d love to hear how you make space for yourself in your day. 💛

5 Decluttering Challenges That Actually Work

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Maybe this summer has gone so fast, and you have not had time to declutter? Or are you staring at your clutter and realizing how much you need to declutter? Perhaps you have tried traditionally tackling your clutter, but need a little challenge? As a Certified Professional Organizer, I’ve seen firsthand how using efforts with more fun and urgency can lead to major transformations in homes and lives. Here are five powerful decluttering challenges that work, especially if you’re ready for a jumpstart or need to build momentum.

 

10/10 Decluttering Method

This 10/10 challenge comes from Real Simple, and it’s a fantastic way to ease into decluttering without stress. The premise is that you declutter 10 items in 10 minutes. You can choose any space, so no need to stress about where to start. It’s quick, so you can maximize your time with a little effort. You can do this once a day or a few times a week. It is simple and easy to do. Grab a sack and get started.

Reverse Decluttering

Sometimes we need to know what to keep, rather than what to edit. Instead of asking what I should get rid of, flip the plan and ask what I want to keep? This method helps you focus on your priorities as well as what adds value and meaning to your life. For example, when tackling your closet, choose your favorite pieces first, then decide whether the rest deserves space in your life. Reverse decluttering shifts the perspective from what you are losing to what you are keeping. No more guilt for what you are letting go.

30-Day Minimalism Game

Feel like your decluttering will take forever? Choose the 30 Day Minimalist Game to add efficiency to your decluttering.  Popularized by The Minimalists, this challenge turns decluttering into a daily practice with a twist. By day 30, you’ll have decluttered 465 items! Enlist a friend to play along and keep it fun and motivating. This challenge works great if you want the support of others, enjoy friendly competition, and need steady progress in a short time. Get started now and before school starts you will be set.

  • On day 1, you get rid of 1 item.

  • On day 2, 2 items.

  • Day 3, 3 items…

As your days go by, and your progress increases, you are excited to see how much space you have created. That builds success and momentum for the future.

Seasonal 30-Day Declutter Calendar

A 30 Day Declutter Calendar keeps you on track to declutter all the spaces in your home in a short time frame. This simple, step-by-step plan reduces clutter without overwhelm. By focusing on one small task each day, you build momentum and see steady progress. It also removes decision fatigue about where to start, creates structure because you are decluttering daily, and makes the process feel achievable.

Timer Challenge

Set a timer and see how much you can declutter in a short burst! This challenge is perfect for busy people who want quick wins. Choose a small space. such as a drawer, shelf, or countertop, and then set your timer for 10, 15, or 30 minutes. Work quickly to toss trash, gather items to donate, and put things back in their place. When the timer goes off, stop and see how much you accomplished.  The time limit keeps it manageable and helps you stay focused without getting overwhelmed. You can repeat this challenge daily for ongoing results.

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a dreaded task. These challenges provide structure, clarity, and fun. Whether you’ve got 10 minutes or 30 days, you can create meaningful change in your home and in your daily life by choosing a challenge that works for the way you think and the time you have. Which challenge will you try first?

 

Back to School with ADHD: 10 Simple Routines to Calm the Chaos and Support Your Child

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back to school adhd kiddos

Back-to-school season is exhausting and overwhelming, especially for families navigating ADHD. From organizing supplies to managing emotional transitions, the start of the school year can both help and hinder kids with ADHD. What’s the most successful way to manage this time of year?  Simple, consistent routines tailored to your child’s needs. As a Certified Professional Organizer, Gigi, and mom, I’ve seen how important small, consistent routines can make a big difference for you and your family. Here are 10 ADHD-friendly routines that bring calm to the school year and support everyone’s emotional regulation.

A great day starts the night before.

With a good night’s rest, everyone has better capacity in the morning and during the school day.  Start early with getting ready for bed and create rituals that enrich that time.

  • Outdoor time to run around and get fatigued.
  • Early bath and pajamas for everyone, including parents.
  • Time to wind down without electronics an hour before bed.
  • Cool, dark rooms with noise or music to calm everyone.

 

Start the day with a checklist.

No need to stretch working memory! Start the day with a visual checklist for simple required tasks such as brushing teeth, getting dressed, eating breakfast, and putting on shoes. Backpacks should be packed the night before. Post the list in your kiddos’ rooms for them to become more independent. If you need to check on their progress, be sure to get up a bit earlier to allow for this.

 

Set up and expect the need for a wake-up buffer.

Kiddos and parents with ADHD often need extra wake-up time. Set alarms at intervals and start earlier to keep everyone on track and calm. Play calming or energizing music depending on your needs. Consider a sunrise clock if needed. Plan bedtime and wake up at the same time to promote consistency. Have a no-device rule for the morning. These rules keep you moving toward the goal of getting out of the house on time.

 

Set up a landing strip by the door.

Designate a bin, shelf, or basket near the door for backpacks, lunchboxes, and school supplies. This landing strip reduces morning scrambles and teaches your child to place items there the night before. Cute can count here with bright or neutral colors and slots for all the stuff.

Establish a Command Center for papers. 

A Command Center created with a calendar, wall pockets, and a bulletin board is a lifesaver for paperwork. Have a slot for each of your kiddos. Place papers in it daily and go through backpacks for homework, permission slips, and notes. This routine prevents piles and missed deadlines.

Keep homework time focused.

The environment is a key element in focus. Set up homework time for success with 2 homework zones. Each zone is equipped with a visual timer, such as a clock or timer, to support concentration as well as an uncluttered environment. Typical homework zones are in the dining room, a family office, or the kitchen table. Why two? That level of interest makes it easier to do the work. Your kiddos can use a timer to create urgency and keep them on track. Have a caddy with all the necessary tools in all spaces. Some kiddos prefer headphones or background music.

Practice transitions.

Everyone does better with a heads-up when it’s time to change to the next activity. Use verbal cues, timers, lights, and music to designate when a transition is about to happen. You will see fewer meltdowns as you use this method.

Stick to an Evening Routine. 

Consistent bedtime routines help regulate sleep, which is critical for ADHD. This is hard to do, but it starts with adding in extra time.

  • Dinner, hopefully, as a family.
  • Place devices in a common charging spot.
  • Downtime or family connection time every day.
  • Pack up for the next day.
  • Bath/shower/brush teeth
  • Wind down with quiet reading or quiet music.
  • Lights out at the same time nightly.

Think of this workflow as a model for your evening. It is not about adding a time of day to do each part, but rather the sequence of activities.

Celebrate every win, big and small. 

ADHD brains thrive on encouragement, not reprimand. Celebrate progress rather than perfection. Discuss learning rather than failure. Did your child remember their folder? Did a kiddo get ready early? Was everyone kind at the end of the day? Acknowledge it! Use praise or small rewards to build motivation.

Review what’s working and discuss why that is. At your weekly Family Meeting, find out what went well, what felt hard, and what should be tweaked.  Empowering self-awareness and reflection is important for executive function.

Get off track? Not to worry! Just start again the next day.

With routines that meet everyone’s ADHD brain where it is, you can bring more ease, confidence, and success into the school year. Remember progress over perfection and baby steps. You don’t have to do it all at once. Start small, stay consistent, and celebrate progress over perfection.

Clear the Clutter: Digital Alternatives to Paper at Home and Work

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clear the clutter digital ways to manage paperwork

There are many reasons to move to or add digital alternatives for your paperwork. Paper clutter piles up quickly and feels overwhelming all the time. Your filing system is way out of date. You are more nimble online than with papers. Documents can be found more easily and are more secure online. With all these good reasons, there are ways to create a hybrid solution with both paper and digital options. Check out these smart, simple digital alternatives to help you reduce paper and stay organized.

Go paperless with certain types of documents.

Switch to paperless statements and online accounts for financial documents. You can access your Medicare, Social Security, and investment accounts easily with an online account.  This offers security for your accounts. Create digital folders first for these statements and easily move them to your computer files monthly.

Pro tip: Use a consistent naming convention with the type of account, name of account, and year, such as Bank – Bank of America – 2025. Start a new folder each year.

Move to scanning and storing documents digitally.

Invest in a simple document scanner or use your phone with apps like Adobe Scan, Genius Scan, or CamScanner. Scan important papers like medical records, warranties, or kids’ artwork and store them in organized folders on your cloud drive. Create the folders for Medical, Home, Receipts, or School first in Google Drive or Dropbox for easy filing.

Pro-tip: Move all the scanned documents to your computer to consolidate information. 

Use receipt management apps.

Receipts for tax purposes, warranties, or returns pile up fast. Try apps Expensify or Shoeboxed for business expenses to capture the information electronically. Download your credit card statements to Excel files and sort by category to create expense accounts.

Pro-tip: Store receipts by month and year to easily search. 

Replace paper notes with digital notes.

While there are good uses of sticky notes and spiral notebooks, using digital notes can be more efficient at times. Use Notion, OneNote, or Notes app for taking meeting notes, planning projects, or capturing ideas. These tools let you organize information into folders and search easily. You can access project management tools and incorporate your notes digitally this way. Another bonus is that you can access your notes from any device or computer.

Pro-tip: Date and name your notes to easily search these. 

 

Use a digital planner and calendar.

A paper calendar is great for many people. However,  Google Calendar, Cozi, or Apple Calendar help you plan and share your schedule, appointments, and tasks. Because your phone is always with you, so is your calendar.  Create a shared family calendar for events, sports, and vacations for everyone to be connected.

Pro-tip: You can search digital planners just like any other digital document. 

Going digital makes life easier.

Many people think of scanning documents or saving photos, but there are lots of unusual or often-overlooked things you can store digitally to reduce clutter and make your life more organized.

  • Recipes and meal plans can be saved digitally. Use apps like Paprika, Plan to Eat, or even Pinterest boards to store your favorite recipes, grocery lists, and weekly menus. You can also scan handwritten recipe cards to preserve family favorites. Move to a digital system for your recipes. You can do this with This eliminates the stacks of magazines, printed recipes, and articles you’ve been meaning to read.
  • Store home maintenance records. Track paint colors, appliance manuals, air filter sizes, warranties, and repair receipts in a cloud folder labeled by Home Maintenance. This information is also great for resale value.
  • Kids’ artwork and schoolwork can be scanned and photographed. Take photos of art projects, school awards, and special homework. Create digital albums by year or grade using Google Photos or a scrapbook app like Artkive.

Keep passwords easy to find

Passwords are the key to everything digital. There are many secure password keepers for each access. Favorites include LastPass and OnePass. Share your login with family to find what they need, just in case.

Start small and do what works for you

Over the years, it has become easier and easier to find ways to eliminate extra paperwork. Start small and do what is most important first, then add to your digital footprint.  Going digital doesn’t just save space. It also saves time, lowers stress, and makes it easier to stay on top of responsibilities. It’s also eco-friendly and accessible from anywhere.

Need Help Getting Started?


As a Certified Professional Organizer, I work with clients in Kingwood and Houston, TX to create personalized systems that work. I also work virtually through Zoom and Facetime. Let’s create a system that keeps you clutter-free and focused on what matters most.

25 Small but Mighty Strategies to Organize Your Paperwork

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25 small easy simple ways to organize papers

 

No matter how diligent you are, paper piles have a sneaky way of multiplying on kitchen counters, in bags, and on your desk. Paper continues to stream in despite your best efforts. But organizing paperwork doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By breaking it down into active, filing, and archive categories, you can create systems that are easy to use and maintain. Here are 25 simple, doable strategies to help you take charge of your paper clutter one small step at a time.

✉️ Active Paper: The Paper You’re Currently Using or Processing

These are the papers you need within reach, such as bills to pay, forms to sign, permission slips, and more.

1. Create a daily inbox.

Designate one bin or tray for all incoming paper. This will prevent things from spreading and give you a consolidated spot to check daily.

2. Designate a Family Command Center.

This is great for high-traffic areas where you can keep calendars, school forms, coupons, or meal plans visible and easily accessible.

3. Label an “Action” folder.

Use a single folder for items requiring attention this week, such as calls to make, paying bills, or other urgent tasks.

4. Add a “To File” folder.

Place papers here temporarily so they don’t stack up while waiting to be filed. Set a monthly or quarterly filing time.

5. Try a Sunday Paper Reset.

Take 10 minutes each Sunday to sort through your active pile, toss what’s done, and move what’s ready to file. You can also add this to your regular Sunday Reset.

6. Use sticky notes to remind you about urgent paperwork.

Place a Post-it on important papers with the deadline or action needed to keep tasks clear and visible.

7. Use “context” to create categories.

Consider the context in which your papers will be used together, such as School and Medical.

8. Place papers “to go” in the spot where they leave.

Keep a labeled folder for documents you need to take with you (such as forms, appointments, or notes) in the bag that you leave the house with.

📁 Filing Paper: The Paper You Need to Keep and Reference

This includes records, warranties, financial info, and other paperwork you might need in the next year or two.

9. Make it easy to file papers by placing your file solution where you deal with papers.

No need to keep it all in a file cabinet.

10. Use broad, general categories like Home/Auto, Financial, and Personal for your major categories.

Break these into subcategories as needed.

11. Assign colors to major categories (such as green for financial, red for medical).

It keeps your paperwork more visual.

12. File by person.

For families, create files by name with one for each member.

13. Set a monthly or quarterly filing date.

Put a recurring event on your calendar to file papers—consistency keeps clutter away.

14. Try an accordion file.

An accordion file with 12 pockets can cover your whole year or main categories.

15. Label a “Current Year” tax folder.

Make tax time easy. Drop any deductible receipts, statements, or W2s here as they come in. You’ll thank yourself next tax season.

16. Set up a shredding station.

Make it easy to discard sensitive documents. Shred documents with account numbers. Keep it close to your filing zone.

17. Set a timer for filing.

Filing is tedious. Keep your filing to small chunks of time. Get motivated with a time set for 15 minutes and use the Pomodoro Method to focus for an hour.

📦 Archive Paper: The Paper You Rarely Need, but Must Keep

These are your long-term keepers, such as legal documents, past tax returns, house records, diplomas, etc.

18. Store in a labeled plastic file bin in a less accessible spot.

Choose water-resistant bins with clear labels for archived categories like Taxes, Financial, or Legal.

19. Add a “Keep Until” note.

Mark folders or envelopes with the year you can toss them—especially helpful for tax or insurance papers. Ask your accountant for your retention schedule.

20. Organize your digital documents, too.

Electronic documents can be organized with the same strategies on your computer.

21. Archive once a year.

Pick a date, such as January or post-tax season, to move outdated files into long-term storage.

22. Store Archive Papers in less active spaces.

Keep them in a closet, attic (if climate-controlled), or labeled file box—not in your everyday workspace.

23. Organize your important documents.

Collect birth certificates, social security cards, and other essentials in one labeled binder or file. Place these in a locked portable safe.

24. Keep sentimental items together.

Collect your sentimental items and place them in an attractive box in your closet. Have one box for each family member.

25. Purge before you archive.

Before storing papers long term, double-check that they still need to be kept. If not, shred and keep less.

Organizing paperwork can be an overwhelming project, but you can make it manageable. These baby steps help you make progress. Start with your active papers, set up a simple filing system, and archive once a year. This workflow works for your real life, helps you manage the necessary information, be more in control and less buried by the clutter.